Little League Report – Round 9
After a week of heavy rain, it was disappointing to see so many fixtures unplayable across Round 9. While the weather may have interrupted our plans, it has only added to the sense of anticipation and enthusiasm as we head into the final round of the winter sport season.
A standout moment from the round was Friday Night Football at Knox, where our unbeaten 6A team took on Knox in what was a highly anticipated fixture. Although the rain had an outsized impact on the match, the experience of playing under lights in such a competitive setting will no doubt be etched in our students’ memories.
As we look ahead, please note that there will be no before or after school training for the next two weeks. We encourage families to read the table below for key dates and information as we transition from winter to summer sport.
Key Training and Fixture Dates – Summer Season 2025
Rugby
Leigh Halfpenny Masterclass
Cranbrook Year 3 and 4 students had the privilege of welcoming Welsh rugby legend Leigh Halfpenny to their training session. Leigh joined in enthusiastically, showcasing his skills and offering valuable coaching tips to the players throughout the afternoon.
He then led a specialised goal-kicking clinic, an incredible learning opportunity for our Cranbrook kickers, given his renowned accuracy and success throughout his career. Cranbrook Rugby extends its sincere thanks to Leigh for his generosity and for sharing his world-class knowledge and experience with our students.
Season Wrap-Up and Weather Impact
As the final weeks of the rugby season approach, our Junior School teams have been training with focus and determination in preparation for their weekend fixtures. Unfortunately, heavy rain mid-week left most pitches unplayable. Despite this, Cranbrook was fortunate to secure training time on Woollahra 1, which allowed teams to continue preparing.
All weekend fixtures were cancelled due to the conditions, with the exception of the Year 4 match.
Year 4
Cranbrook 36–12 The King’s School
Cranbrook Year 4 took to the field in relentless rain but were undeterred by the conditions. They started strongly, racing to an early lead through several well-executed tries and solid defensive work that kept Kings scoreless through much of the game.
Tommy M was a standout, making a number of strong attacking runs and showcasing outstanding defensive commitment. His efforts were capped by a brilliant solo try from halfway, a highlight in what was arguably one of Year 4’s best team performances of the season. Despite the weather, the students delivered an entertaining and high-quality display of team rugby.
Peter Dumbleton
Head of Rugby
Football
6A – 0-1 Loss There’s an old saying in football: “Can you do it on a cold, wet night in Stoke?” Well, the 6As were handed their own version of that cliché, only colder, wetter, and with less visibility – on a cold and wet Friday evening at Knox.
While the scoreboard read a 0-1 loss, the experience was anything but forgettable. The boys were tested in conditions that made passing a gamble and footing a luxury. But through the puddles, mudslides, and mist, there was one major takeaway: learning to adapt to conditions you can’t control is part of the journey.
Special mention to Henry H between the sticks who was nothing short of heroic charging out bravely, diving into pools of mud, and keeping the boys in it with some brilliant saves. Also, a very big thank you to the parents who not only made the drive but also took home a week’s worth of washing. You’re the real MVPs.
5A – 9-0 Win A demolition job from the 5As this weekend. Clinical, ruthless, and in control from start to finish, so much so that mercy rules had to be considered early on. The boys showed real quality across the park, playing with pace and purpose.
A special shout-out to Alfie who slotted into a new position and played it like he’d been there all season, and to debutant Wren who looked right at home in the sky blue. One-way traffic from start to finish.
5C – 7-2 Win The 5Cs braved the elements and came out with a cracking 7-2 win over Grammar. Goals flowed despite tricky weather, and it was a great display of teamwork and attacking football.
A classy gesture from Remy, Raf, and Ned who helped Grammar even the numbers to ensure the contest remained fair, sportsmanship at its best.
Ben Rollison
Head of Football
Round 9
It was another exciting and competitive session for the Multi Sports team. The morning began with Cows and Cowboys, a fast-paced game that challenged the group’s evasion
skills and encouraged quick decision-making. They then moved around a series of activities to practice their dribbling, kicking, and passing techniques before forming three teams for a high-intensity game of Indoor Football. The matches were played at a high level, with all participants showing strong determination, teamwork, and respect for each other. Congratulations to Jack F and Anders O, who were named players of the week for their outstanding effort and focus throughout the session.
Josh Cohen
Assistant Head of Sport and Multi-sport coach